New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

New Jersey Senate Bill S2828

Introduced
2/27/24  
Introduced
1/13/26  
Refer
2/27/24  

Caption

Establishes program to subsidize purchase price of medical cannabis for registered qualifying patients enrolled in Medicaid or NJ FamilyCare programs.

Impact

The enactment of S2828 is expected to significantly impact local education policies by improving access to mental health services for students within New Jersey's school districts. It is designed to address the increasing concerns regarding student well-being and mental health challenges. By ensuring that schools have adequate mental health staff, the bill aims to create a more supportive environment for students, ultimately striving to improve academic outcomes and overall mental health.

Summary

Senate Bill S2828, introduced in New Jersey, mandates local boards of education to hire a specific number of professionals with expertise in student mental health for schools. The bill stipulates that each school must employ at least two full-time staff members, which can include licensed school counselors and school psychologists. Furthermore, schools with an enrollment exceeding 500 students are required to employ additional mental health professionals on a proportional basis. This initiative aims to enhance mental health resources within schools to better support student needs.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding this bill appears to be largely supportive, as it aligns with ongoing national discussions about the importance of mental health in educational settings. Advocates argue that providing adequate mental health staffing is essential for effective student support and well-being. However, there may be concerns regarding funding and staffing shortages, as implementing the requirements of the bill could strain existing resources in some districts.

Contention

One of the notable points of contention around S2828 may revolve around the fiscal implications of hiring additional mental health professionals. Critics may argue that while the intent of the bill is noble, the financial burden on school districts could be significant, particularly in areas with limited budgets. Furthermore, questions may arise regarding the qualifications and availability of designated staff, as not all schools may have ready access to licensed counselors or psychologists per the requirements outlined in the bill.

Companion Bills

NJ A898

Same As Establishes program to subsidize purchase price of medical cannabis for registered qualifying patients enrolled in Medicaid or NJ FamilyCare programs.

NJ S782

Carry Over Establishes program to subsidize purchase price of medical cannabis for registered qualifying patients enrolled in Medicaid or NJ FamilyCare programs.

NJ A3932

Carry Over Establishes program to subsidize purchase price of medical cannabis for registered qualifying patients enrolled in Medicaid or NJ FamilyCare programs.

NJ A593

Carry Over Authorizes municipalities to address certain unlawful operation of all-terrain vehicles and dirt bikes through seizure and, in some circumstances, destruction of vehicles.

NJ S2786

Carry Over Revises requirements for infertility coverage under certain health insurance plans.

Previously Filed As

NJ S1792

Establishes program to subsidize purchase price of medical cannabis for registered qualifying patients enrolled in Medicaid or NJ FamilyCare programs.

NJ A2451

Requires Medicaid and NJ FamilyCare to provide medically tailored nutrition services for certain enrollees.

NJ A3369

Requires SHBP, SEHBP, Medicaid, and NJ FamilyCare to cover anti-obesity medications.

NJ A3103

Requires DHS to establish a pilot program covering menstrual hygiene products under Medicaid and NJ FamilyCare.

NJ A2251

Establishes limited medical benefit program for individuals losing NJ FamilyCare coverage under "One Big Beautiful Bill Act"; establishes medical relief fund in Treasury; appropriates funds.

NJ S2943

Requires DOBI to establish integrated enrollment platform for State-based health insurance exchange and NJ FamilyCare program.

NJ S3905

Establishes program for certain individuals to become certified homemaker-home health aides and provide services to certain Medicaid and Medicaid-Medicare dually eligible enrollees under increased reimbursement rates.

NJ A4342

Establishes program for certain individuals to become certified homemaker-home health aides and provide services to certain Medicaid and Medicaid-Medicare dually eligible enrollees under increased reimbursement rates.

NJ HB2152

AN ACT Relating to permitting the medical use of cannabis by qualifying patients in specified health care facilities;

NJ A4564

Establishes minimum Medicaid and NJ FamilyCare pediatric special care nursing facility reimbursement rates.

Similar Bills

NJ S2828

Requires local boards of education to employ certain number of staff with expertise in student mental health.

NJ S2523

Requires that in-service training for school employees on safety and security include component on behavioral threat assessment.

MS SB2596

Mississippi K-12 and Postsecondary Mental Health Task Force; extend operation of.

MS SB2496

Mississippi K-12 and Postsecondary Mental Health Task Force; extend operation of.

NJ A4544

Establishes requirements for students engaging in certain bias-related conduct.

NJ S3715

Establishes requirements for students engaging in certain bias-related conduct.

WV SB199

Relating to elementary behavior intervention and safety

NV AB298

Revises provisions relating to school counselors. (BDR 34-532)